Monstera deliciosa, or Swiss cheese plant, is definitely a favorite in the houseplant community. We totally get it. It is gorgeous, it grows "monstrous" leaves, hence the name, and it is super easy to care for.
Here are some tips to make your plant grow and thrive in your home.
Light:
The Monstera can grow in low to bright indirect sunlight. It will grow faster in brighter light conditions. Always shield from sun if placed outside since this can damage the leaves. It also grows well in artificial light.
Water:
It's important to not let this plant sit in soggy potting mix, since this will lead to root rot. Water only when the top half of the soil feels dry, it is better to let dry a bit between waterings than to overwater. It loves rain water, it makes it have more new leaves. It is important to water thoroughly, enough so it drains water through its drainage, especially if you're watering only once a week.
Soil:
Monsteras in general need a well draining potting mix. We recommend to use an indoor potting mix, with peat moss and perlite or vermiculite, or create your own mix half peat moss, half perlite. This mix helps to retain moisture without rotting the roots.
Food:
If your plant was just repotted with a potting mix that has fertilizer included, start fertilizing in 6 months, since the potting mix will still have enough nutrients. If not, then start fertilizing right away. You can add slow release fertilizer and forget about it for the next few months. If you prefer to use fertilizer diluted in water, then you can fertilize once a month.
Repotting:
Repot once a year to give it more space to grow. Always use potting with drainage holes. Repot in pot that is 1 to 2" larger in diameter and in height.
Propagation:
You can propagate Monstera deliciosa in water or in soil. Water propagation is best if you don't have time to keep the soil constantly moist, plus you get to see the roots growing! Soil propagation is more efficient, since the plant gets used to its potting mix and it settles faster than growing in water, and then changing to soil. Either way, it is important to cut the stem cuttings where it has nodes, and roots will start growing out of these nodes.
Toxicity:
Monsteras are toxic to cats, dogs and humans if ingested. Signs of intoxication in pets include: intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.
Facts:
•Monstera deliciosa is native from Mexico and Central America.
•When grown outdoors it produces an edible fruit.
•It can grow in water, without the need of planting in potting mix, just change water once a week.
